Tips for a successful Christmas home sale

While the Christmas holiday season can be a hectic time generally, there are distinct advantages in marketing your property during this time.

There might well be fewer homes listed in December, as many vendors choose to wait until the new year, so your home is more likely to stand out. What’s more, serious buyers will still be looking and they’ll have time over the holidays to browse listings and visit properties.

If your home is on the market over Christmas, keep the following tips in mind...

* Street appeal is important. Make sure the garden is tended and the house can be seen clearly from the street (if applicable) and looks good to potential buyers driving by any time of the day.

* Christmas lights, while attractive at night, don't do much for the home during the day. The best option is a few well-placed lights instead of abundance.

* Clear paths and cut back trees that could possibly damage your home or cause injury to visitors.

* Embrace the season by placing a Christmas wreath on the front door and perhaps even a holiday welcome mat.

* Make sure the door area is clear of clutter, including kids' toys, shoes, parcels or mail.

* Keep the house cool. Entering a hot house can give a negative impression. At the same time a cold house can also have a negative impact. If you have air conditioning put it on before the inspection then turn it off to avoid any distraction.

* Take care with the Christmas tree. If your home is on the small side, opt for a small tree - you really don't want it to appear to take over the entire living or family room.

* Keep decorations on the conservative side, as not all homebuyers might celebrate in the manner you do. You want the house to be noticed, not the decorations.

* If the house is being viewed in the evening, ask your agent if you should turn Christmas tree or other lights on, and if so, which ones.

* Bake holiday biscuits and treats. The enticing smell will be welcome to those viewing your house (be sure to leave some out for those inspecting your home).

Finally, keep in mind that the holiday adornments should enhance (not dominate) the house. You want to convey the love, comfort and joy your family has shared in the house. If conveyed successfully, a new family will be keen to move in and carve out their own Christmas memories.